NW Twin Cities

In his latest legislative update, State Rep. Dean Urdahl highlighted a provision of the state’s recent COVID-19 bill that will benefit farmers.

The Rural Finance Authority’s Disaster Finance Program and Highly Pathogenic Animal Disease Emergency Accounts have been expanded to include COVID-19. Farmers impacted by circumstances related to the pandemic will be able to access funding through the programs. Exemptions have also been created for those sanitizing and disinfecting spaces because of COVID-19. Before legislation, a license was required.

Urdahl praised the way the four caucuses worked together on provisions for the bill that was approved for the pandemic. He also pointed out House Republicans negotiated sunsets, reporting criteria and accountability measures.

Urdahl said he has received questions regarding the stay-at-home order Gov. Tim Walz has signed. He said it has been a challenge to answer each one directly or as quickly as he would like. Urdahl said he would assist residents any way he could and continue to keep them posted on legislative actions.